More stories

  • in

    Who is Sheikha Mahra Al Maktoum? 6 things to know about this royal

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    10 mins ago

    Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is the daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
    As a keen advocate for women and known to empower the community of local designers in the UAE, Sheikha Mahra is always inspiring her 172k followers on social media.
    With her growing presence globally, all her fans are eager to know more about this Princess.
    To find out more, Emirates Woman shares everything that you might not know about Sheikha Mahra.
    She gives back to the community

    Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is no stranger to giving back to the local community. Known for her philanthropic efforts in the region, she is always spreading joy and was also seen spending many afternoons with children of determination. Known to never shy away from affect, Sheikha Mahra also shared an emotional moment where she stopped and reached down to hug a young child. With all smiles in a heartwarming portrait. With her philanthropic efforts playing a key role to raise awareness about different issues in society, her kindness and generosity are truly irreplaceable.
    She loves horses

    It’s well-known horse racing is a major passion of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and it’s clearly a love he has passed on to his children. Sharing his love for horses is his daughter, Sheikha Mahra, is often seen attending the races and posing with her favourite animals.
    She supports local designers

    Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is one such person that is continuing to champion regional designers and their flawless creations. Known to attend the Icons Exhibition, Sheikha Mahra is a regular visitor of its different locations around the UAE, as it shines a light on different designers in the region. The Icons Exhibition is an event held multiple times a year showcasing local designers and talent and is run by Emirati designer and creative Roudha Al Shamsi. She always shares series of photos and a video of her visit to any exhibition where she is seen learning about various local businesses visiting different booths at the event, from jewellery to food to makeup to clothes.
    She’s known for her sartorial choices

    More and more nowadays we’re seeing abayas come in an array of different colourways and patterns – far from the traditional all-black ensemble. Hence, one individual known for her sartorial choices is Her Highness Sheikha Mahra al Maktoum. Her Highness is known for effortlessly playing with different patterns and colourways and always knows how to carry it off. Whether attending exhibitions or posing with her favourite horses, she continuously stuns with every different look.
    She completed her Bachelor’s in the UK

    Her Highness Sheikha Mahra Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum has a degree in International Relations from a UK university. The royal princess also has a college degree from Mohammed bin Rashid Government Administration.
    She got married last year

    According to an official statement on the Sheikha’s official Instagram account, Her Highness Sheikha Mahra and her fiancé Sheikh Mana Al Maktoum have signed the marriage contract. On April 5, 2023, both Sheikha Mahra and Sheikh Mana shared that they celebrated their Katb Al-Kitaab — the official marriage ceremony and signing of the marriage contract through social media.
    She’s a mother
    The Dubai princess and daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, gave birth to a healthy baby girl in May 2024. Back in February this year, the couple had hosted a gender reveal.
    Swipe through the gallery to look back at Sheikha Mahra’s key moments:

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @hhshmahra & @marwa.alzarounii More

  • in

    8 precious new beauty products to stock up on this November

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 min ago

    As November is here, it’s time to stock up on all the new beauty products this month.
    While, it’s tempting to stick with the products you love, but it’s important to update your beauty routine every few months. New technologies and ingredients are constantly being developed, and there’s always a chance you’ll discover something even better. From freshly launched fragrances, high-tech skincare and smoothing body care to trending hair care and makeup, these are the products that are poised to reach cult status on our editors’ bathroom shelves.
    After a long day, our skincare and makeup routines are key in maintaining healthy skin and a glow throughout the day, hence investing in the right beauty buys can go a long way.
    With more and more TikTok-approved products circulating on social media, it’s always important to follow a standard skincare routine along with tried-and-tested products for utmost efficiency.
    So, if you’re looking for an overarching skincare routine with the must-have beauty products.
    Hence, let’s dive into the exciting new additions this month.
    Fuller Lips

    The blur-gel technology helps to smooth and reduce lip lines.Blur Liner Dhs78 REFY
    Radiant Glow

    This brightens the skin for an effortless lit-from-within glow.
    Glowy Super Gel – Lightweight Dewy Multipurpose Illuminator Dhs110 Saie
    Rare Notes

    An elusive, stirring and surprising chypre with a sensuous texture.
    Barénia Eau de Parfum 100ml for Dhs680 Hermès
    Instant Hydration

    This Hyaluronic Acid-infused formula improves skin radiance for makeup application.
    Bergamot Glow Dhs220 Dolce & Gabbana
    Lasting Formula

    The dual-sided wand catches every lash for eye-opening length and definition.
    Limitless Lash Lengthening Clean Mascara Dhs110 ILIA

    c
    Light Reflecting Makeup Setting Mist Dhs185 Nars
    Di-Peptide Complex

    Revolutionising collagen regeneration by restoring elastic fibre function.
    Golden Lift Tightening Serum (30ml) Dhs526 Lancaster
    A Pearlescent Finish

    Designed to capture the allure of elegant white opal.
    Reflect Highlighter Dhs186 Suqqu
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    November’s – The Precious Issue – Download Now
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @haileybieber More

  • in

    How I got my job as… Head Buyer and Creative Director at Bloomr

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    This week, we chat with Mimmi Abdul Rahman, Head Buyer and Creative Director at Bloomr. Known for their timeless designs, Bloomr has carved a niche in the furniture industry in the UAE.
    Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
    Rooted in design, Bloomr prides themselves in staying ahead of trends. They are committed to forever evolving each product line to be relevant with the times. From vibrant silk hydrangeas and delicate roses to statement houseplants like contemporary cacti and lush fiddle leaf trees, Bloomr’s collection caters to a variety of tastes and décor styles.
    To delve into the brand’s ethos, Emirates Woman spoke to Rahman on her journey in this industry began.
    What was your favourite subject at school?
    My favourite subjects in school were the creative arts classes, such as sewing, woodworking, and drawing. I loved them.
    What was your first job?
    I worked in a clothing store in Sweden when I was seventeen years old. It taught me how to be responsible at a young age and to show up and give every opportunity your all, no matter what.
    What brought you to Dubai?
    Bloomr. I was working as a Head Buyer in Oslo at the time. My brother, who is the founder of Bloomr, asked if I could join him and plan the company’s involvement at Index in 2017. It was a huge success, and the rest is history. We joined forces and started developing product categories, which have expanded from artificial plants, flowers, and trees to include a full range of home interior products to complete and transform a home.

    What are the key elements of your role?
    My role is Head Buyer and Creative Director at Bloomr, where I oversee the company’s product selection and store design. Whether designing a retail store, decorating a client’s home, or managing large-scale projects, at Bloomr, we work to create spaces that resonate with our discerning clientele.
    Talk us through your daily routine.
    My daily routine varies significantly depending on the projects I am working on. Each day typically begins with checking my emails, enjoying a cup of coffee, and browsing the Bloomr website www.bloomr.com in preparation for the day ahead. If I have a project installation, I head to the venue to oversee the setup and decoration, a process that can take anywhere from one to three days, depending on the scale of the project. On days without installations, I fill my schedule with meetings involving clients, suppliers, our in-house visual merchandising team, and the store manager. I also participate in photo shoots and plan changes to the store’s layout every three months. Additionally, I review new product selections, manage orders, and visit factories and exhibitions.
    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
    I would advise you to always prioritise your strengths and passions. When your work aligns with what you love, you can dedicate countless hours to it without feeling like it’s a sacrifice. Most importantly, never give up. Building a company and brand from the ground up takes time and a significant amount of effort, and it won’t always be easy. You’ll encounter various challenges along the way, but persistence is key. Additionally, having a strong, supportive team is essential. You don’t need a large army of people; what matters is having a good team around you to help you achieve your goals.

    Tell us more about pieces at Bloomr.
    At Bloomr, we focus on incorporating a modern touch across all our product categories. Our goal is to ensure that each category complements the others, making it easy for customers and designers to select products that work well together. We strive to create a seamless shopping experience so our clients don’t feel the need to visit other stores to find the pieces they need.
    What are some of the trends in the home décor space?
    Currently, home décor trends are leaning towards earthy, modern, and sleek designs. You will also see a significant presence of wine-red and sage-green elements. These colors are making appearances in various items, including décor sculptures, table lamps, cushions, and more.
    Any tips to keep in mind when setting up a new home?
    The first step is to determine what style you want for your home. I recommend finding images that evoke the feeling and ambience you are looking for and creating a proper mood board. Once you have this visual reference, it will be much easier to identify the furniture and décor you need to bring your vision to life.
    What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
    I would say the best piece of advice I was given is: When you feel you want to give up, you stand up and give 300 percent. Even if you feel you have nothing left to give, remember that you still possess power and energy; it all comes down to your mindset.
    What’s your future for the brand?
    The future of our brand involves delving deeper into each category; we are committed to continuous innovation; we will always strive to meet the evolving needs of our customers, helping customers create beautiful, inviting spaces that inspire and delight every day.
    To add these stunning pieces to your space and for more information visit Bloomr.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

  • in

    8 romantic hotels to book for a short-haul getaway in the UAE

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    9 mins ago

    In need of some quiet time with your partner, why not book a romantic staycation to relax and recharge as a couple?
    If you’re in the need of some inspiration, Emirates Woman has collated a list a of properties to have a wonderful experience with the ones you love.
    Anantara, The Palm

    Immerse yourself in island bliss as you soak up the sun and sand at this world-class accommodation with an exclusive Dubai escape including luxurious spa treatments, a stylish resort and an exclusive beach escape to unwind all day at the Palm Jumeirah hotel’s spa with views of the Arabian Gulf.
    For more information visit Anantara.com
    One&Only Royal Mirage

    Indulge in abundant space, luxurious rooms and suites, nine inspiring restaurants, and dramatic, Arabesque architecture at One&Only Royal Mirage with immaculate gardens, for you to instantly feel at home while you lead down to the one-kilometre sweep of Jumeirah Beach and dream of a magical glamorous evening.
    For more information visit oneandonlyresorts.com
    Burj Al Arab

    As one of Dubai’s most glamorous hotels, you can unwind in true luxury. Enjoy the private pool 150m above the ground with views of the scintillating skyline as you relax in awe of the luxurious views. While being a global icon of Arabian luxury, you’re sure to have a romantic getaway.
    For more information visit Jumeirah.com
    Palace Downtown

    Adding a dose of Arabian heritage, this tastefully decorated hotel is fully-equipped with luxurious rooms and suites, allowing the hotel to stand out for its individualistic architecture and commitment to offering the highest service standard.
    For more information visit addresshotels.com
    Atlantis, The Palm

    Nestled on the calm turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf, overlooking Dubai’s magnificent skyline at this world-famous Palm island in Dubai. This world-renowned resort has an array of award-winning celebrity chefs with one-of-a-kind signature suites and 360-degree views for you to stay in style.
    For more information visit atlantis.com
    Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa

    Inspired by the Bedouin setup from back in the day, amidst the dunes lies one of Dubai’s most romantic hotels with its sumptuous tents complete with their own private pools, handcrafted furnishing and its very own butler service. With all the privacy you need, this luxurious getaway is definitely a romantic staycation for all.
    For more information visit mariott.com
    Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

    This Ottoman-inspired elegance on the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah has an elegant design with club lounge access dedicated to awakening your senses amongst the calm of Talise Ottoman Spa definitely making it a stay to remember.
    For more information visit Jumeirah.com
    Oberoi Al Zorah

    If you’re looking for a romantic weekend away, Oberoi Al Zohrah is the perfect staycation to book this weekend. Located just 25 minutes by car from Dubai and set in the midst of nature, Al Zorah feels like a world away from its bustling urban counterpart with pristine natural white sand beaches, forests, lagoons and a biodiversity of 100 species of birds. With minimalist architecture and wide-open spaces, this rejuvenating resort ensures each guest remains at utmost comfort. The resort’s 56 rooms and 33 suites and villas, including both two and three-bedroom private villas with 24-hour private butler service, are flooded with natural light and fantastic garden and sea view. Visitors can dine at the resort’s luxury beachfront restaurant Aquario and other fine-dining spots. Prices start at Dhs2,400 per night with a private garden.
    For more information visit oberoihotels.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image Instagram @burjalarab More

  • in

    6 pristine hotels that are one step ahead in the innovation game

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    53 mins ago

    From eco-conscious concepts to advanced wellness hotels and futuristic architectural elements, these luxury destinations are one step ahead in the innovation game.
    LOW-TECH LUXE: HOTEL TERRESTRE – OAXACA, MEXICO
    Image: Supplied; Photography by Andrea David
    The latest addition to Grupo Habita’s family of lifestyle hotels, Hotel Terrestre champions slow living aimed for guests to disconnect from technology. This blissful escape in Oaxaca puts the spotlight on Mexico’s beauty through a bold architectural design that beautifully blends with its surrounding environment and is then juxtaposed with low-tech sustainable efforts by operating completely off the grid using 100 per cent solar power.
    terrestrehotel.com
    HIGH-TECH WELLNESS HAVEN: LANSERHOF TEGERNSEE – TEGERNSEE, GERMANY
    Image: Supplied; Photography by Alexander Haiden
    With healing as its core concept, Lanserhof, one of the leading luxury wellness spas in the world, offers a host of holistic and advanced medical-based fitness programmes, detox treatments, and innovative holistic diagnosis such as genetic analysis and capsule endoscopy. This modern health resort situated in the Bavarian Alps leads the way in pioneering regenerative health and wellness.
    lanserhof.com
    SUSTAINABLE STAY: ALILA ULUWATU – BALI, INDONESIA
    Image: Supplied
    Alila Uluwatu sets the standard in sustainable tourism. This picture-perfect property perched on a cliff in Bali, Indonesia dramatically impresses with its savannah-like architectural design aesthetic. Beyond the beauty and luxury it delivers, Alila Uluwatu integrates eco-friendly concepts and practises into place within its daily operations – from the private villas constructed with locally sourced materials such as bamboo and lava rocks that help minimise electric consumption to its on-site Sustainability Lab initiative.
    alilahotels.com
    WELLNESS IN THE CITY: ONE&ONLY ONE ZA’ABEEL – DUBAI, UAE
    Image: Supplied
    Set to open in March 2024, the Longevity Hub at Clinique La Prairie at urban vertical resort One&Only One Za’abeel, combines evidence-based medicine and pioneering aesthetic to deliver ultra-personalised wellness solutions to address the daily stressors of urban living. Spread over three floors, The Hub comprises of 29 treatment rooms for wellbeing and clinical therapies; a Movement Studio with state-of-the-art gym facilities; a Longevity Bar; and the region’s first Longevity Index Lounge, which boasts cutting-edge solutions including the Neuro Wave Stimulation – a tech-guided acoustic and vibrational therapy that enables even the busiest of minds to enter a deep state of relaxation.
    oneandonlyresorts.com/one-zaabeel
    A FUTURISTIC CITY STAY: HOTEL MORPHEUS – MACAU, CHINA
    Image: Supplied
    This futuristic architectural vision by design genius Zaha Hadid combines ultra-luxury and innovation in the form of 772 guest rooms and suites equipped with cutting-edge technology. From its dystopian-like exoskeleton steel frames to best-of-the-best amenities, Morpheus delivers an opulent experience like no other property in Macau or the world.
    cityofdreamsmacau.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Photography by Jaime Navarro More

  • in

    6 unique Sharjah desert cafés to visit this winter

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    59 mins ago

    With the weather cooling down and winter fast approaching in the UAE, soon it will be the perfect time to take advantage of the cooler weather by spending time in the desert.
    Encouraging people to embrace their natural surroundings, many different desert dining concepts emerged last season, particularly in Sharjah, and we’ll most definitely be paying a visit this year.
    With that, we’ve outlined the very best places to dine in a sophisticated setting whilst basking in the serenity of the desert.
    NOT a SPACE

    This one-of-a-kind destination is curated with a series of activations in one venue. With the beautiful sunrise and sunset views, this winter experience is designed to bring friends and family together. With a creative set-up and mountainous backdrops, this open-air experience also conducts several activations to celebrate different occasions in an open space. From a ladies parlour to a men’s barber, there are a host of experiences to savour on your visit.
    For more information visit notaspace.ae
    The Uncommon

    So, if you’re on the hunt for something different, this space is designed especially for you. Created against the backdrop of the picturesque Sharjah desert skyline, there’s a series of delectable hot and cold beverages to enjoy as you take in the beautiful surroundings. Known for its stunning mirrored display, visitors can capture those Instagrammable selfies or unwind at this relaxing spot. Designed to relish an array of delicious bites including baked goods in the heart of the desert, this sophisticated spot is unlike any other. You can book a spot to The Uncommon on the Requeue app.
    One Degree Café

    Designed with a Bedouin-style camp and as a pop-up experience, guests can enjoy all the dune views in the middle of the desert. Made for the perfect escape, this outdoor venue offers a plethora of delicious dishes and beverages from Spanish lattes to desserts such as tiramisu. The mains include signature dishes such as the classic hot dog and the wagyu burger, with many more options on the menu.
    Common Winter

    With a minimal aesthetic in the heart of the Sharjah desert, this gorgeous area is converted into a refreshing hotspot with a range of delectable and premium coffee. As an unmissable experience, this winter pop-up is designed with dispersed mirrors, unending views of the scenery, making it another gem in the middle of the desert. Situated near Al Faya Desert, this popular spot has already gained quite a bit of traction, making it everyone’s favourite spot who visits. Located in Al Fayah, it’s open from 3pm to 1am.
    Link by Mara

    With international fusion street food and a scintillating majlis-style seating area with fairy lights, guests can lay back with the socially distanced seating arrangements for utmost safety. With a plethora of mouthwatering desserts and must-have beverages, this spot has a private bonfire option in an intimate setting to enjoy with all your loved ones.
    Coffee House

    This sophisticated setup almost gives a wedding-like feel with flowy curtains and rattan chairs that set it apart from the rest. From croissants to carefully prepared beverages ranging from hot chocolates to coffees, guests can surely dine in style with the glistening skies above the setting. With the luxe décor featuring modern-day lights and the sandy desert combined, you’re sure to make multiple visits to this pop-up.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram, Feature image: Instagram @_aljp More

  • in

    In pics: Hande Erçel gives us inspiration for our next trip to New York

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    7 mins ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 15 IMAGES
    As an avid traveller, Hande Erçel has travelled around the world. This time she travelled to one of the most popular cities around the world – New York.
    The actress shared snippets of her trip to her 31.1 million fans on Instagram and even made us feeling like hopping on the next flight.
    During her trip, the Turkish actress even won an award at the American Turkish Society. For the event, Hande Erçel was donned in a stunning white Versace gown with gold buckles. The look was complemented with jewellery from Pomellato, known for their statement rings and bracelets.
    A foodie tour
    Known for her love for food, the actress explored every nook and corner of New York. From trying the viral New York Pizzas to indulging in the finest pasta, her trip was nothing less than a delight to the eyes.
    With a massive following on Instagram, Erçel has always been a fashion icon for many with luxe outfits, as she never shy’s away from the camera. From luxe co-ords to well-fitted suits, Erçel sure knows how to keep on top of it with her fashion choices, as she inspires her fans with all the up-to-date fashion trends. Whether cruising on a yacht or vacationing in the Maldives, her wardrobe staples are a must-have for many.
    Previous trips
    Greece, Mykonos
    This summer she took a break and travelled to Mykonos, Greece. Known for her wanderlust inspiration, Hande Erçel added yet another scenic spot to our list this year. The country offers a variety of activities that cater to different interests, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Mykonos has a myriad of Sightseeing tractions.

    Sweden, Stockholm
    The country offers a variety of activities that cater to different interests, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Stockholm has a myriad of Sightseeing tractions. they include the Old Town (Gamla Stan), the Royal Palace, and modern attractions like the ABBA Museum.
    India, Mumbai
    As one of Turkey’s biggest stars, she travelled to India for the FICCI Frames 2024. Organized by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), the annual confab is one of the largest media and entertainment industry events in Asia. The theme of Frames 2024 is “RRR: Reflections, Realities and Road Ahead.” As a means to foster cultural exchange between Turkey and India. At FICCI Frames, the actor was part of a session ‘From Bollywood to Turkish Drama: Acting across Borders’ along with the Indian actor Ayushmann Khurrana.

    Japan, Tokyo
    From sipping on her matcha at The Matcha Tokyo to even visiting the renowned Japanese restaurant WAGYUMAFIA, the Turkish actress made her way around the country, experiencing best what its known for. The Turkish actress visited Osaka and Tokyo during her stay and explored all the key touristic sites which included rejuvenating onsen baths, slurping delicious ramen, and even enjoying the street food delights that looked beyond delectable.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @handemiyy More

  • in

    30 timeless winter buys to purchase for a capsule wardrobe

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    6 mins ago

    As the weather begins to cool down, finding the right buys can last you through winter season.
    For a stylish and functional winter wardrobe, focus on layering and versatility to stay warm and fashionable. Here are some of the best pieces to consider:

    A classic, long wool coat is a staple. Choose neutral colors like camel, black, or grey for versatility, or go for bold hues to make a statement.

    A high-quality, insulated puffer jacket is perfect for particularly cold or snowy days. Look for one with a water-resistant or windproof shell for extra protection.Knitwear
    Soft, oversized sweaters in wool or cashmere are both cozy and chic. While turtlenecks are great for layering under jackets or blazers, they add warmth and style.

    Thermal tops and leggings in materials like merino wool or synthetic blends help retain body heat and are essential for layering under your main outfit.

    Wool trousers or corduroy pants offer warmth while looking polished. They can be styled for both casual and formal looks.

    Ideal for wearing under dresses or skirts, they add extra insulation without bulk.

    Waterproof leather or suede boots with insulated lining are essential for staying warm and dry. Opt for styles like ankle boots or knee-high boots, depending on your look.

    A luxurious scarf can elevate your outfit while keeping your neck warm. Leather or Wool Gloves are practical and stylish, especially with touchscreen-compatible options. Add warmth to your head with a beanie and can double as a fashion accessory.

    In addition to practical outerwear, consider a bold statement coat in a vibrant color or pattern to add flair to your winter look.

    Perfect for extra chilly days, these coats offer both warmth and texture to your wardrobe.

    Layer an oversized wool blazer over turtlenecks or thin sweaters for a sophisticated and warm layered look.
    So, swipe through our editor-approved guide for the best capsule pieces to have for your winter wardrobe.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @hanneketsujimaru More